My Valentine

My Darling --
I can't even begin to tell you what an amazing force you've been in my life:

As I carry our first child and think of you, serving so many thousands of miles away, I can't help but realize how the Lord has blessed me. Your love has been the source of all things wonderful in my life. You've grounded me where I needed constancy, and yet you've consistently allowed me to fly. You've never withheld your support, whether my ambition was to go to Baghdad, get my masters, launch a business or start a family.

The power of your belief in me has opened my eyes to a depth of intimacy and attachment I never thought possible. Other women should be so lucky...

And then there's the passion and ambition you bring to everything you do. You impress me every day with your ability to make others feel excited about service, regardless of whether they work for you or you work for them. Let me not forget your intellect and cool-headed response to pressure. I don't have to be privy to everything you do to know that there are young men and women in uniform who're still walking among us because of the protection you proffered from the skies above.

You are truly my hero -- in every sense of the word -- and I can't wait to be the mother of your child. More importantly, though, I wouldn't trade anything for the privilege of watching you as the amazing father you're destined to be.

So be safe and hurry home to us. The Squirt wants to hear Daddy's voice...

All my love for All my life --

Your Olivia